News Releases

Margaret Trudeau, today, spoke candidly on her personal history with Pierre Elliot Trudeau, the high expectations placed on her by others and the tough choices she was required to make in life, in the third Power of Women – Power to Change luncheon series in Calgary, presented by BMO Financial Group.

As one of the youngest political spouses in the world, at the age of 22, Margaret Trudeau attracted more publicity and criticism than any woman in Canadian history.  Throughout all this she kept her sense of humour and sensitivity, which was also evident during her address.

Margaret Trudeau delivered a message of personal strength, resiliency and the need to redefine one's goals when faced with life's adversities. She openly discussed her battle with depression and how that affected her life. After seeking medical treatment that has given her life balance and happiness, she advocates strongly on mental health issues and helping people overcome the stigma of mental illness that often prevents sufferers from getting help.

The third luncheon of the YWCA Calgary Power of Women - Power to Change speaker series, which aims to increase awareness of important issues facing women in all walks of life, was a sell-out with over 400 attendees. Proceeds from the series will support YWCA programs for women in crisis related to homelessness, poverty and violence.

“The success of the Power of Women - Power to Change events has a direct correlation to the willingness of women to share their stories of personal triumph and failure, in order to pass along their advice and encouragement to other women,” said Jill Wyatt, CEO, YWCA Calgary.

Alison Keene, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, BMO Nesbitt Burns, Alberta added:  “BMO Financial Group is committed to the YWCA's initiative to see women grow both professionally and personally.  We are pleased to present speakers, such as Margaret Trudeau, who have messages of courage and conquest.”

BMO Financial Group and the advancement of women

In 1991, BMO launched a groundbreaking Task Force on the Advancement of Women which led the bank to establish diversity goals and develop programs designed to recognize and eliminate barriers to advancement. Today, more than 37 per cent of BMO's Canadian executives are women – up from nine per cent fifteen years ago. This important work continues at BMO, as many executive positions in Alberta are filled by women, and in the communities it serves.

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